JEE Main 2024 — D And F Block Elements Question with Solution

The metal that shows the highest and maximum number of oxidation states among the options given is manganese (Mn), which is option B. Manganese exhibits a wide range of oxidation states from +2 to +7, which is more diverse than the other metals mentioned. To further detail:

• Co (Cobalt) typically exhibits oxidation states of +2 and +3, with +2 being the most common. Although it can theoretically show +1 and +4 in very specific compounds, these are not as stable or as common as the states displayed by manganese.


• Mn (Manganese) shows a remarkable series of oxidation states from +2 to +7 in its compounds, making it the element with the highest number of stable oxidation states among the options listed. For example, MnO (in the +2 state), Mn₂O₃ (in the +3 state), MnO₂ (in the +4 state), Mn₂O₇ (in the +7 state), and so forth.


• Fe (Iron) commonly exhibits +2 and +3 oxidation states, such as in FeSO₄ (in the +2 state) and Fe₂O₃ (in the +3 state). Though there are compounds with Fe in the +6 oxidation state, like potassium ferrate (K₂FeO₄), these are not as common or stable as the lower oxidation states.


• Ti (Titanium) shows oxidation states of +2, +3, and +4. Among these, the +4 oxidation state (as in TiO₂) is the most stable and common. Though it offers a variety of states, it doesn't reach the variety or the maximum oxidation state shown by manganese.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option B: Mn (Manganese), which can show the highest and maximum number of oxidation states among the options provided.